Matt's relief was palpable. He leaned forward to kiss her, but she turned her head so that his mouth glanced off her cheek instead.

“I have to leave for just a little while,” he said when he pulled back. “I need to finalize all the arrangements for our departure and make sure your needs will be met for the entire trip. I’ll be back as soon as I can. Is there anything I can bring you?”

She shook her head and he rose but before he walked away, he stroked a hand over her hair. “I’ll do anything to make you smile again, Savvie.”

Before she could respond, he turned...